Infusing technology into perinatal home visiting: Screening and intervening for intimate partner violence

4^th International Conference on Nursing & Healthcare

October 05-07, 2015 San Francisco, USA

Loraine J Bacchus

London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, UK

Posters-Accepted Abstracts: J Nurs Care

Abstract :

Background and purpose: As part of the Marie Curie International Fellowship, a nested interpretive qualitative study was undertaken within the DOVE trial with the Nursing Schools at the University of Virginia and John Hopkins University. DOVE tests the effectiveness of screening and intervening for IPV using (i) paper assessments and brochures administered by nurse home visitors versus (ii) DOVE delivered by mHealth technology. Data collection, sample and analysis: 51 qualitative interviews were undertaken with: 25 women, 23 home visiting staff and 2 DOVE tablet designers. 4 non-participant observations of home visits were conducted. Study sites were rural and urban. Data were stored in NVIVO Version 10. Thematic analysis was undertaken. Results: The computer tablet is a safe and confidential way for abused women to disclose their experiences without feeling judged. The tablet helped to facilitate discussion between home visitors and women rather than act as a barrier to communication. Screening by either method helped to build trust between home visitors and women which enabled some women to share other sensitive issues. Women and home visitors felt that the intervention should vary on each occasion. Women had little knowledge about support services prior to DOVE and few had told a professional, particularly those living in rural areas. Home visitors are a key link to liaison with community resources. Women do not mind being asked about IPV, even those who have never experienced IPV. Home visitors see it as part of their role to enquire about abuse and offer support.

Biography :

Email: Loraine.Bacchus@lshtm.ac.uk